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Posted by Jon Hoffman in Things To Do
Big things are happening at Exit 407 on I-40 East in Sevier County, Tennessee.
For decades, this exit has been known as the #1 eastbound entrance to the Tennessee Smoky Mountains. Now it's about to become famous for something else: a vast new vacation complex currently being developed by the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians through tribal subsidiary Kituwah LLC.
Dubbed “The 470: Gateway to Adventure,” this family-friendly complex will combine shopping, dining, and entertainment with thrilling immersive experiences. Much of the fun will center around Smoky Gap, an Americana-themed “retail-tainment” district with a nostalgic vibe.
According to Richard Sneed, Principal Chief of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, the tribe has signed letters of intent with several prospective Smoky Gap tenants. At least two are already confirmed:
Activate Games, a live-action gaming experience offering thrilling high-tech games with varying difficulty levels for ages 10 and up – including a light-up grid room, touch-activated climbing wall, fast-paced laser maze, and more
Fannie Farkle's, a combination arcade and eatery where you can chow down on foot-long “Ogle Dogs” and tasty loaded subs, then try your hand at classics like PacMan and Skee-Ball or newer games like Ticket Time and Robot Ball
Both attractions are already Gatlinburg favorites. Now they'll be coming to Smoky Gap, too, along with other amusements slated for completion by 2025.
Meanwhile, in 2024, The 407 site will open its $75-million anchor attraction, which promises to be unlike anything else you've ever seen before.
Introducing Cherokee Rose, the First Puy du Fou “Themed Spectacle” in the United States
Have you heard of Puy du Fou (pronounced “Pwee doo Foo”), the world-renowned theme park that specializes in historical storytelling? With a flagship venue in France's Vendee region, this multi-site attraction takes visitors on intense immersive journeys through various places and periods, from ancient Rome to medieval Europe to the trenches of Verdun.
Unlike conventional theme parks, Puy du Fou has no rides, but it still offers thrills galore via spectacular shows and walkthroughs featuring gifted professional actors, highly realistic sets, and amazing special effects. You truly feel as if you are there – whether it's in a Roman amphitheater or a Renaissance chateau.
At The 407 locale, Puy du Fou will present Cherokee Rose, a stirring patriotic drama about the valiant Cherokee volunteers who fought for America during World War I. Working closely with the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, the Puy du Fou team will create a 45-minute walkthrough featuring state-of-the-art sound, lighting, and 3D video. As you stroll through the “living streetscape,” you'll feel completely immersed in the gripping, heart-rending story. There'll be nothing else like it in America!
But What Can You Do Right Now at The 407: Gateway to Adventure? Visit Buc-Ee's!
As of June 26, 2023, a huge Buc-Ee's Travel Center has been up and running 24/7 at The 407 site. Spanning 74,000 square feet, this massive mega-convenience store offers all the hearty Southern “road food” Buc-Ee's is justly famous for – including Beaver Nuggets (sweet, crunchy corn puffs); savory brisket sandwiches; 20 different kinds of fudge; and fruit-filled kolaches, a Czech pastry popular in Texas. There's even an in-store BBQ station where expert grillmasters prepare premium meats the authentic Texas way.
In addition, The 407's Buc-Ee's provides 120 gas pumps, 22 electric-vehicle charging stations, and a 250-foot-long carwash. If you need to fuel up, you're in luck!
Book Your Smoky Mountains Getaway Now
The 407 is just one of countless delights awaiting you in the Smokies. Contact Volunteer Cabin Rentals today to reserve your mountain cabin in the breathtaking Smoky Mountains.
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